There are a lot of myths about what happens to dogs when Douglas Shire Council is called to collect them or they are found wandering at large.

This is what happens when a dog is impounded in Douglas:

The dog is checked for identification. If they are currently registered or have a microchip, we will attempt to contact the owner as soon as possible. Council has a number of microchip scanners and access to the microchip database;

The dog is checked for injury or disease. Where an officer has concerns about the health of the dog, it will be vet assessed before being impounded. In the event the dog has ticks or fleas it will be treated with a wash;

The dog is provided with shelter, food and water and will be offered a toy;

A photo of the dog and any identifying particulars will be added to the Douglas Shire Council website and Facebook page;

While impounded, the dog is walked every day;

If the dog remains unclaimed after a week, and is assessed as having qualities consistent with re-homing (good temperament, no major health issues) then a re-homing organisation will be contacted.

All of the Local Laws team have received training in basic canine temperament assessment and are regularly supported by YAPS, FNQ Rescues’R’Us, Paws and Claws and other local animal welfare organisations to re-home as many dogs as possible.

Our aim is to reunite dogs with their owners as quickly as possible and ensure that they are looked after in the meantime.